Best CD rates today, October 28, 2025: Lock in up to 4.2% APY today

Core Insights - Deposit account rates are declining, but competitive returns on certificates of deposit (CDs) can still be locked in, with the best CDs offering rates above 4% [1] Group 1: Current CD Rates - The best short-term CDs (six to 12 months) currently offer rates around 4% to 4.5% APY, with the highest rate at 4.1% APY available from Marcus by Goldman Sachs, Sallie Mae Bank, and Synchrony Bank [2] - Historical trends show that CD rates have fluctuated significantly over the years, influenced by economic conditions and Federal Reserve policies [4][5][6][7] Group 2: Historical Context - CD rates were relatively high in the early 2000s but began to decline due to economic slowdowns and Federal Reserve rate cuts, reaching around 1% APY for one-year CDs by 2009 [4] - The trend of falling rates continued into the 2010s, with average rates for 6-month CDs dropping to about 0.1% APY by 2013 [5] - The Federal Reserve's rate hikes between 2022 and 2023 led to a resurgence in CD rates, which remain high by historical standards despite recent cuts [7][8] Group 3: Choosing the Right CD - When selecting a CD, factors such as the term length, type of financial institution, account terms, and inflation considerations are crucial for maximizing returns [10]